188 - [AMA #30 Sneak Peek] How to Read and Understand Scientific Studies

Summary

In this podcast episode, the host and guest discuss the process of scientific experimentation and how to better understand studies that are published in the news or in publications. They explain the importance of hypothesis formulation, experimental design, determining sample size, obtaining institutional review board approval, and pre-registering the study. They also discuss the different types of studies used in medical research, including observational studies, experimental studies, and summations/reviews/analyses of studies.

Observational cohort studies are a type of study that involves observing a group of people over time to see if there is a pattern in their health outcomes. These studies can be retrospective or prospective. Retrospective studies look back at existing data, while prospective studies follow a group of people over time. The hosts explain that these studies can be useful for generating hypotheses, but they have limitations in terms of establishing cause and effect relationships.

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are considered the gold standard in medical research. These studies involve randomly assigning participants to different treatment groups to eliminate bias. The hosts explain that RCTs are important for establishing cause and effect relationships and determining the efficacy of treatments. They also touch on the phases of clinical trials for investigational drugs, starting with phase one, which involves dose escalation and determining toxicity in small groups of patients.

Meta-analyses are another type of study that combine data from multiple studies to look at the same question. The quality of the studies included can greatly impact the quality of the meta-analysis. The hosts explain that meta-analyses can be useful for summarizing the results of multiple studies and identifying patterns that may not be apparent in individual studies.

Overall, the hosts emphasize the importance of understanding the different types of studies used in medical research and the hierarchy of evidence. They also touch on the limitations of individual case reports and the value of case series in generating hypotheses. By understanding the process of scientific experimentation and the different types of studies, listeners can better evaluate studies that are published in the news or in publications.